The prep school’s musical talent was beautifully displayed during this year’s summer concert.  Ella in Year 3, who opened the concert, set a high standard with a delightful performance on the violin of Gavotte by Bach.  7 year old Ella is already an accomplished musician and is currently grade 3 on violin and 4 on piano. She said “I’m really nervous but at least my mum was there on the piano.”

Maia followed with a confident performance of Air by John Blow on the Cello and then 4B displayed what they had been learning in the string scheme this term. The commitment and focus of the pupils was a fitting tribute to Mr Harper who originated the scheme some years ago and who will be leaving at the end of this term.

The String Chamber group and the whole Prep school Orchestra displayed a varied and entertaining repertoire from Mozart’s Minuet to Old Joe Clark and Susanna.   Kate, in Year 5, who plays the flute in the orchestra, said “I really enjoyed tonight because I like playing with my friends and performing the music.”

Ben proved that he is a gifted and skilful piano player with his performance of Gigue a l’Angloise by Telemann and Ryan followed with Ductia and Pavane on the Guitar.  The Year 4 student said “I didn’t find these really difficult because I got very high scores in my grade but I just love the way I feel when I play the guitar.  I enjoy playing.”

Jessica in year 6 was delighted to be playing the recorder in the flute and recorder group.  She said “We played Chandos Fanfare, Irish Lullaby, Now all the Forests and the flutes played Gavotte by Handel.  I like playing the recorder. It’s not that difficult and I’ve been playing in a group for a long time.  I really enjoy it.”

The warm and bright sound of the French horn filled the hall with Nick performing the theme from Titanic.  In parts, this was a tricky piece to play and sitting in the audience,  his sister Cecily, an accomplished musician herself, said she was very proud of him “This is such a difficult instrument but Nick really loves it and is very good.  I know I’m embarrassing him by saying this, but I was very proud to see him stand up and perform. He did very well.”

The Choir rounded off the night with a celebration of the history of the blues, interspersed with narration from Etienne and Francesca.

Colfe’s Headmaster Richard Russell said “This was an enjoyable concert with an excellent variety of music.  The level of concentration from the children and the obvious enjoyment of music, both from those who are taking their first steps to those more virtuoso performances, was wonderful.”

For more photographs of the event, click here.